Overview
The perception exists that, a seal is a seal but difference in design and material will impact on the seal's functionality and has to be matched to its application.
Seals are essentially classified into 2 categories - Indicative and Barrier
Within these broad categories you have:
Contact us if your requirement calls for bar-coding as only certain products can offer this feature.
Academic definition of a seal
Definition as per ISO/PAS (Publicly available specification) 17712 document:
Indicative seals: A security seal is a passive, one time locking device that is used to provide a reliable indicator of tampering (unauthorized removal or attempted removal) or entry. In addition, by virtue of its construction, the security seal provides limited resistance to an intentional or unintentional attempt to open it and enter the freight container that is sealed with the seal. They require inspection to indicate whether tampering has occurred or entry has been attempted.
High security seals: security seals that are constructed and manufactured of material such as metal or metal cable with the intent to delay intrusion; they generally must be removed with quality bolt cutters or cable cutters. They require inspection to indicate whether tampering has occurred or entry has been attempted.
Often, if inadequate consultation has been offered to a user, the incorrect product is matched to the applicaition without subsequent benefit.
Definition as per ISO/PAS (Publicly available specification) 17712 document:
Indicative seals: A security seal is a passive, one time locking device that is used to provide a reliable indicator of tampering (unauthorized removal or attempted removal) or entry. In addition, by virtue of its construction, the security seal provides limited resistance to an intentional or unintentional attempt to open it and enter the freight container that is sealed with the seal. They require inspection to indicate whether tampering has occurred or entry has been attempted.
High security seals: security seals that are constructed and manufactured of material such as metal or metal cable with the intent to delay intrusion; they generally must be removed with quality bolt cutters or cable cutters. They require inspection to indicate whether tampering has occurred or entry has been attempted.
Often, if inadequate consultation has been offered to a user, the incorrect product is matched to the applicaition without subsequent benefit.
Factors to consider when choosing a seal
What is being sealed
What is the purpose of the seal - security or identification
What is the risk exposure
What is the value of the consignment or commodity
Are you trying to achieve mere deterrence or barrier to entry
Who is applying the seals (ease of application)
How easily must the seal be removed under authorized circumstances
What are the handling conditions
What is the estimated lifespan requirement of the seal
Volumes required
Does the application require visible or covert sealing
Is the sealing point an aperture or a flat surface
What type of markings are required
What control measures have been implemented to monitor the seal effectively